Choosing the Right Community– Six Questions to Ask

Choosing the Right Community– Six Questions to Ask

Nothing is more frustrating than finding a wonderful house and then realizing that the neighborhood is not as great. Everyone has heard the expression, “location, location, location,” and it’s one of the main reasons homeowners say they love their home. Yes, the chef’s kitchen is a nice feature, but if there are rules that are deal breakers in the HOA, the excitement fades quickly. 

Here are Six Questions to ask yourself that will help you find the right community: 

1. Is there pride of ownership? Observing the community- the streets, the parks, the neighborhood yards– can tell you a lot about the location. Is there pride of ownership? 

2. Is convenience important to you? Do you want to live close to highways, shopping, medical facilities, or schools? Do you prefer a more rural location with a slower pace? Carefully consider the lifestyle you want as part of the community analysis. 

3. Are homevalues rising or falling? While the overall market will impact all communities, pay special attention to housing values and if they are declining, understand why. 

4. Does the community have an HOA? Some people love HOAs for maintaining the community’s appearance while others do not want the restrictions they bring. 

5. How are the schools rated? Regardless of whether you have school-aged children, the quality of the schools can affect property values, positively or negatively.6. How safe is the neighborhood? Crime statistics are available through a variety of sources online. Make sure to check them when doing your research. 

There are other considerations of course but start by asking these questions before you fall in love with a home. Choosing the right community is even more important than picking the right house.



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